Badge Size Guide for Conferences & Events
Not sure which badge size to use? Compare standard badge dimensions with visual previews, detailed measurements, and expert recommendations to find the perfect size for your event.
Visual Size Comparison
See how standard badge sizes compare side by side. Each rectangle is proportionally scaled to represent the actual badge dimensions.
4" x 3"
101.6mm x 76.2mm
Standard Conference Badge
Most Popular3.5" x 2.25"
88.9mm x 57.15mm
Small Name Tag
4" x 6"
101.6mm x 152.4mm
Large Event Badge
3" x 4"
76.2mm x 101.6mm
Portrait Badge
4.25" x 6"
107.95mm x 152.4mm
Oversized Badge
2.25" x 3.5"
57.15mm x 88.9mm
Pocket Badge
4.13" x 5.83"
105mm x 148mm
A6 International Standard
Standard Badge Sizes Reference Table
A complete reference of badge dimensions in both imperial and metric measurements.
| Badge Type | Inches (W x H) | Millimeters (W x H) | Orientation | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard ConferencePopular | 4" x 3" | 101.6 x 76.2 | Landscape | Most conferences |
| Small Name Tag | 3.5" x 2.25" | 88.9 x 57.15 | Landscape | Meetups, small workshops |
| Large Event Badge | 4" x 6" | 101.6 x 152.4 | Portrait | Trade shows, expos |
| Portrait Badge | 3" x 4" | 76.2 x 101.6 | Portrait | Events with photos |
| Oversized Badge | 4.25" x 6" | 107.95 x 152.4 | Portrait | Major expos, festivals |
| Pocket Badge | 2.25" x 3.5" | 57.15 x 88.9 | Portrait | Internal meetings |
| A6 International | 4.13" x 5.83" | 105 x 148 | Portrait | International events |
Detailed Size Descriptions
Learn about each badge size, when to use it, and what type of events it works best for.
Standard Conference Badge
Most Popular4" x 3" (101.6mm x 76.2mm)
The most widely used conference badge size. Fits standard horizontal lanyard holders and clip-on badge reels. Provides ample space for name, title, company, and QR code.
Small Name Tag
3.5" x 2.25" (88.9mm x 57.15mm)
Compact and lightweight, ideal for casual events where a smaller badge is preferred. Similar in size to a standard business card, making it easy to carry and store.
Large Event Badge
4" x 6" (101.6mm x 152.4mm)
Extra-large format with plenty of room for detailed information, sponsor logos, schedules, and large QR codes. The vertical orientation hangs naturally from a lanyard.
Portrait Badge
3" x 4" (76.2mm x 101.6mm)
A vertical version of the standard conference badge. Works well when you want to include a headshot photo or when the event name needs prominent vertical placement above attendee details.
Oversized Badge
4.25" x 6" (107.95mm x 152.4mm)
Slightly wider than the large event badge for maximum visual impact. Excellent for events where badges double as schedules or include detailed event information on the back.
Pocket Badge
2.25" x 3.5" (57.15mm x 88.9mm)
The most compact badge format. Vertical orientation fits neatly in shirt pockets and small badge holders. Focuses on the essentials: name and affiliation.
A6 International Standard
4.13" x 5.83" (105mm x 148mm)
The ISO standard A6 size commonly used for events outside the United States. Compatible with standard A6 badge holders and plastic sleeves available internationally.
How to Choose the Right Badge Size
1. Consider Your Badge Holders
If you have already purchased badge holders or lanyards, measure them first. The badge must fit inside the holder with a small margin. Standard horizontal lanyard holders typically accommodate 4" x 3" badges, while vertical holders fit 3" x 4" or larger portrait sizes.
2. Think About Information Density
How much information do you need on each badge? If you only need a name and company, a small name tag (3.5" x 2.25") may suffice. If you need name, title, company, QR code, event schedule, and sponsor logos, consider a larger format like 4" x 6" or A6.
3. Factor in Readability Distance
Badges at networking events need to be readable from about three to four feet away. Larger badges with bigger fonts make this easier. For conferences in large halls, the standard 4" x 3" or larger is recommended. For intimate gatherings, smaller badges work fine.
4. Match the Event Formality
Formal corporate events and executive summits often use standard 4" x 3" landscape badges with elegant typography. Casual meetups and workshops can get away with smaller, simpler name tags. Trade shows and expos typically use oversized badges that double as schedules.
5. Check Your Printer Compatibility
Verify that your printer or print service can handle the badge size you choose. Most office laser printers handle standard letter-size paper, so you will want to lay out badges efficiently on 8.5" x 11" sheets. Our tool automatically optimizes badge placement for your paper size.
Badge Size Tips From Event Professionals
Order a Sample First
Print a single test badge at your intended size before committing to a full batch. Check how it fits in your badge holder and how readable the text is from arm's length.
Include Bleed Area
When designing badges with colored backgrounds or borders, add a 0.125" (3mm) bleed area beyond the trim line. This prevents white edges if the cut is slightly off-center.
Minimum Font Size: 10pt
Keep the attendee name at 14pt or larger for readability. Titles and company names should be at least 10pt. Avoid going below 8pt for any text on the badge.
Use Both Sides
If you need more space but want a compact badge, design both sides. Front for identification, back for event schedules, venue maps, Wi-Fi info, or emergency contacts.
Recommended Badge Size by Event Type
Professional Conference
4" x 3" Landscape
Industry standard, fits all common holders
Trade Show / Expo
4" x 6" Portrait
Room for exhibitor details and schedules
Corporate Retreat
4" x 3" Landscape
Professional and compact
Workshop / Training
3.5" x 2.25" Landscape
Compact, name-focused design
Networking Meetup
3.5" x 2.25" Landscape
Lightweight and unobtrusive
International Conference
A6 Portrait
ISO standard, available globally
University Event
3" x 4" Portrait
Great for student photos and info
Music Festival
4.25" x 6" Portrait
Oversized for visual impact
Internal Meeting
2.25" x 3.5" Portrait
Pocket-sized and minimal
Badge Size FAQ
What is the standard conference badge size?
What badge size should I use for a trade show?
What is the difference between portrait and landscape badge orientation?
Can I use custom badge sizes?
What badge size works for international events?
What paper weight should I use for badges?
Design Badges in Any Size With Our Editor
Online Badge Designer supports all standard badge sizes and custom dimensions. Pick your size, design your badge, import attendees, and export print-ready PDFs.